Classical music has been a prominent feature in Australia's cultural landscape since the colonial era. Today, classical music remains a popular genre with a large following across the country, and there are many celebrated musicians, composers, and conductors hailing from Australia.
One of Australia's most renowned classical musicians is pianist and composer Percy Grainger, who gained international recognition in the early 20th century for his virtuosic performances and innovative compositions. Other notable Australian classical composers include Peter Sculthorpe, Ross Edwards, and Brett Dean, among others.
The Sydney Symphony Orchestra is one of Australia's most prestigious classical music ensembles, regularly performing in the iconic Sydney Opera House. Other notable orchestras include the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and the Queensland Symphony Orchestra.
There are also several radio stations in Australia that specialize in classical music, including ABC Classic, which is operated by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation and features a wide variety of classical programming, including live performances, interviews, and educational content. Another popular classical music radio station is Fine Music Sydney, which broadcasts from Sydney and features a mix of classical music, jazz, and world music.
Overall, classical music remains an important cultural institution in Australia, with a thriving community of musicians and fans alike.